Photosynthetic attributes and grain yield of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) as influenced by the application of composted coir pith under rainfed conditions.

摘要

A field experiment was conducted at the Eastern Block, Department of Central Farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India, on medium black soils during the North Eastern Monsoon Season (October-January) of 2002. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with varying combinations of organic and inorganic sources along with a control and the recommended dose of fertilizers. The results revealed that the number of tillers per plant was enhanced by the application of a combination of organic and inorganic sources. The leaf area index (LAI) increased up to 60 days after sowing and thereafter declined. Leaf area duration (LAD) and crop growth rate (CGR) were reduced at maturity. Treatments receiving 50% N from yeast sludge composted coir pith (YCCP) with ZnSO4 and 50% inorganic N gave a significantly higher number of tillers, LAI and CGR compared to the control. The dry matter accumulation differed in all the stages, but higher values were recorded in this same treatment. Thus, due to the higher number of tillers, higher LAI, CGR and greater dry matter accumulation, treatment with 50% N from YCCP with ZnSO4 and 50% inorganic N (T10) produced the highest grain yield (2185 kg ha-1), which was on par with 50% N from pleurotus composted coir pith (PCCP) with ZnSO4 and 50% inorganic N (2103 kg ha-1)..